Grand Rapids

Restless and cold, I woke from what could barely be considered a nap. The cab wasn't the best place to sleep for the night, but undoubtedly better than driving half asleep. It was a text from Joey that pulled me from my dreams. Good thing too, it was already 10:00 AM, and this adventure isn't about wasting time. It wasn't long before I was at Joe's place and greeted with a welcoming hug. From there the day progressed at a leisurely pace. We spent a good several hours at a coffee shop in deep conversation about the state of things and perceptions, even delved into the realm of the metacognitive. The setting was surreal, with the winter sun low on the horizon, sharing coffee and conversation in a new environment with an old friend. I couldn't ask for a better start to my day. Keeping the pace, we walked to Coolidge to deliver coffee to a friend, and made our way to brew pub where we each devoured easily one of the best burgers I have ever had. The place is HopCat if you're ever in the area. I highly recommend it.

Fast forward to the night where things began to pick up pace. We went out with some of Joey's righteous friends to by far one of the best bars I've ever been to. The Pyramid Scheme. I knew it was something to behold when the bar tender listed off beers they didn't carry, "... bud light, miller light, coors light..." Nailed it. The painting of Bebop and Rocksteady didn't hurt either.  A few black labels later and we were on to Stella's for beer and arcade games. It was turning out to be a great night. Good conversation with good people always keeps my spirits lifted. Last stop on our way was a cocktail bar next door to Stella's. By this time I've had enough to not remember all the details. What I do remember is having the best old fashioned I've ever had, and the only whiskey sour I've ever had made right. Thanks Steve.

I believe from there, we called a cab and made it home safely. Shared a bed head to toe and fell asleep to the soundtrack to Day of the Dead.

Today had an even slower start than yesterday. Another cup of coffee with Joe at the Madcap and we parted ways for the day. And I got to meet up with my cousin Kyle for Lunch. It was good to catch up, and see how Kyle has grown intellectually. Another great conversationalist.

Then we slack-lined.

Well, Grand Rapids has been good to me. Next on the adventure, Detroit to visit a friend from MTU.